Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a good investment when you have two kids of similar ages. These narrow tandem buggies or versatile side by side buggies will keep both children in the same place while navigating the grocery aisle, parks, and whatever else life can throw at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This includes both the seating arrangement and the overall size of the stroller which can impact the ease of use and storage. “Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs and its dimensions folded,” says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. “They should also take a look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family.”
A good double stroller should be able to handle a variety of surfaces with ease, from suburban sidewalks to park paths and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also have flexible seating arrangements for children of various ages and comfort features such as peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to protect children from sun or rain.
Seating options are important for many families that will utilize double strollers from birth to childhood. “There are two main categories: in-line with one seat behind the other, and side-by-side with seats adjacent to each other,” Billingsley explains. “Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek appearance and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style double stroller to make the most space for heavy items or groceries.”
In-line models are more likely to have this kind of discordance. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one being nearly flat, and the other being more upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model that has a nearly flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to quickly access their snacks, personal items and toys when on the move. She also recommends that it’s helpful to find a stroller which has a parent console, or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep their essentials in their reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers are expandable which allows parents to alter the set-up based on the needs of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly rated Double Pushchair For Newborn And Toddler stroller that can be used from birth with just one seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to handle the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers must be able to move and push, especially on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights which allow parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread, which makes adjusting seat belts quicker and easier is another great feature to look for. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that glide across any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents choose a side-by-side design that allows both children to see each other on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling squabbles over who gets to sit in which spot, but it isn’t foolproof. If the seats are set at different heights, one child may be in a position to punch or kick the other on a walk.
For parents with twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem stroller offers the benefit of being able see both kids at once. However, they are wider than other double strollers, meaning they may not be able to fit through all interior doorways. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be converted from a single to a double in a variety ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, since exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.
It’s easy to get caught up in the bells and whistles, but it’s important to remember that strollers are basically baby carriers that will be used for extended time. It should be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both the passengers. It should also have a familiar, intuitive design that allows the person pushing it to maneuver it effortlessly.
Simple to Use
A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on various terrains for families who are constantly on the move. Strollers that have features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. However, there are other features that make them easier to use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your vehicle, but still have plenty of storage space for food or other things. It’s also important to include thoughtful features, like cups holder for one parent, consoles for parents and snacks on trays. These are able to help make traveling with two children significantly easier.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller based on its performance on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also looked at how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature improved the overall function of the stroller. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This can be a huge selling point for parents who are on the move, as it saves time and reduces the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby 2 Double scored well in this measure because it came with a variety of seating options, as well as additional accessories to accommodate expanding families. The wagon-style double stroller is able to accommodate a second seat as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board that is perfect for active families planning long trips with multiple kids of varying age groups. It also glides effortlessly over pavement, cobblestones and gymax double seat stroller: adjustable handle grey; pushchairsandprams.uk, ballfields–and folds flat for simple storage in a closet or trunk. The design of this stroller is easy and intuitive and was a big hit with our test subject Kerry. Its stylish packaging with clearly labeled sections as well as a helpful user guide made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Stores
A double stroller is able to hold twice as much stuff than a single stroller, therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. Ideally, you want a stroller that is able to hold the basic necessities for both kids: nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, along with parents’ belongings such as wallets, phones keys and wallets. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A quality double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For instance, some models include the bassinet attachment, which can be used for newborns, and others come with child seats that can be adapted to your children until they’re able to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some Cosatto Supa Dupa Double Stroller: Lightweight And Compact strollers allow older siblings to share in the fun by riding on a rider board.
There’s a wide selection of double strollers in the market, from sleek, high-performance models that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more suitable for use in the everyday. While shopping, read reviews and recommendations of families like yours to get a better idea of what to expect from the double stroller you pick.
Double strollers are available in three different designs such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most versatility and are suitable for twins or children who are who are close to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers, on other hand, have two seats that are placed next to each other and facing in opposite directions–a ideal choice for children who are the same age or for siblings who like to interact with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-byside counterparts.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top model from Safety 1st. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model has multiple seating options, including the ability to click in two infant car seats or a single child riding in an convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the comfy memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that will never go flat. And when it’s time for you to fold, this model needs only a couple of pulls on straps on each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold in half.
